SUMMER RAYNE OAKES

I’ve been a bit delinquent in my web posts as of late. This is what happens when you’re in the beginning stages of a new business. That doesn’t mean I haven’t had time to take a few trips: Taos being one of them. This past month I met up with my good friend Paul who decided to pack up and head to New Mexico to build some Earthships. I had never heard of them until one night he encouraged me to watch Garbage Warrior. 

Earthships are basically self-sustaining homes equipped with everything from passive solar heating/cooling, greywater catchment; black water recycling; sustainable, recycled or reclaimed frames; natural ventilation systems; indoor and outdoor gardens; and a host of other neat features. Mike Reynolds, the founder of Earthship biotecture, at one point had his architectural license revoked until he received an opportunity to reapply for it again once they realized he was onto something valuable. Ah, the price of Genius. 

The concept and execution of a completely self-sustaining home is an exciting prospect. Tens of thousands of earthships have been built all around the world – but Taos, New Mexico is definitely the capital of Earthship City. Check them out if you’re even remotely interested in Living off the Grid.

Thinking of jumping off the bridge into the Rio Grande…and then we looked down.

Different form in order to get into a handstand.

But can still achieve the same result.

There I am, poking fish again in the Phoenix – ultimate house in Taos.

Paul likes to exaggerate how big everything is. 

That’s us climbing up and off the Earthships.

Damon’s pasty (but lissome, limber) legs

Paul’s hands move into frame to grab Damon’s ass. Very Brokeback Taos.

Progression of laughter.

E.V.E. on the way of getting built.

Taos “stained glass”